The Starr family moved to Texas during the formative years of the Republic of Texas and its entry into the United States. Though they haven't made the history books, their efforts to survey, map, and sell land throughout the state made them instrumental in its growth, as they helped bring railroads and new settlers to Texas. They made their home in Marshall following the Civil War to expand and solidify their land agency business. The historic site interprets four generations of Starrs and curates the collections that were left in the big house, Maplecroft, as well as caring for the sites' historic buildings. The site has added staff since the recent transition to the Texas Historical Commission, and current goals include repairs and maintenance, writing a collections policy, and expanding programming for children and adults.

In 1985, the house and three acres encompassing seven historic buildings was left to the State of Texas upon the death of the last owner, Mrs. Clara Pope Willoughby. In 2008 the site was transfered to the Texas Historical Commission from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.